6203 N Capital of Texas Hwy, 512/428-4788

10615 Metric

The dishes are authentically flavored, wonderfully spicy, and cooked with fresh ingredients. The Ma Po Doufu is a lusty temple to the gods of chile and mala: superb and perfect on a nippy day, delightfully sweat-inducing on a hot day.

7901 Cameron Rd., Suite 5C, 512/719-5515

11501 Rock Rose Ave., 512/520-2822

Cake balls: Not just for breakfast anymore. The menu here features appetizers, salads, entrées, soups, and desserts complemented by a well-chosen wine list, a selection of local craft beers in bottles, and a roster of custom cocktails.